Tomas Adoryan: "It’s a pride to represent Armenia"

Tomas Adoryan, a 23-year-old midfielder from Argentine club Banfield, who has received his first call-up to the Armenian national team, spoke to the Argentine outlet El Territorio about his emotions, dreams, and football journey.

Born in San Pedro, Argentina, Adoryan played barefoot on muddy fields as a child and is now preparing to debut for the Armenian national team.

“It’s a pride to represent the national team. Me, my family, my friends — everyone is very happy. I’ve been called up for two friendlies: against Kosovo and Montenegro,” said the footballer (ElTerritorio.com).

"They have been following me for a while, but I still didn't expect it now. I played in some games, but I missed games too, but thank God it happened. It took me by surprise and I am very happy. It is an honor for me; I think it is the most beautiful thing to be called up to the national team... it is not easy to achieve," Adoryan said in an interview with Sanpedroonline.com.

As for his connection to Armenia, he explained: "I have Armenian roots through my great-grandfather, my grandfather's father. This will be my first trip to the country because I have never been there before. I am already going there on the 29th."

Adoryan was born in a remote town in the Misiones region of Argentina. He started playing football at the age of five and rose from muddy backyards to the professional stage. At club level, he has played for Guaraní, Crucero del Norte, Rampla Juniors (Uruguay), and has been with Banfield since he was 16.

“I think just being called to the national team makes you more visible. It might help me move to a European club — that’s my dream, to play in Europe,” he admitted.

Despite his success, Thomas hasn’t forgotten his hometown. He regularly visits the children's football school Cristo Junior.

“This is my town. I always visit the school, give advice, share my experience to inspire the kids to follow their dreams if they truly love football,” noted Adoryan.

The player is currently training with Banfield’s reserves and preparing for Armenia’s June matches. This season, he has played 11 matches in the Argentine league and scored one goal. On May 29, Adoryan will be in Yerevan to begin preparations with the national team.

Adoryan becomes the latest Argentine-born footballer to be called up by Armenia, following in the footsteps of Lucas Zelarayán, Norberto-Brisco Balekian, Marcelo Devani and José Andrés Bilibio — and now, Thomas Adoryan.